Debate opens on bill to pay for port channel project

7:39 AM,
May 8, 2013

Expanding the channel is crucial to accommodate the larger classes of cruise ship that visit the Space Coast and would allow more cargo traffic from oil tankers and bigger vessels carrying construction materials and other dry goods

Written by

Ledyard King
FLORIDA TODAY

The Senate began debating a long-awaited bill Tuesday that would authorize billions for water projects nationwide, including the next phase of Everglades restoration and widening of the Port Canaveral channel.

Environmental groups are leery of the bill's attempts to speed review of ecologically sensitive projects. And some budget watchdog groups don't like it because they say it would make significant new commitments of federal spending.

The bill, known as the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), sanctions - but does not guarantee - federal funding for a host of water-related ...